A Guide to the Dartmouth Admissions Process – Decision Dates, Admission Deadlines, Essays, Interviews, Acceptance Rates, and More
Founded in 1769, Dartmouth College is the smallest Ivy League school, with 4,459 undergraduates in rural Hanover, New Hampshire. It prioritizes undergraduate education, offering small classes, close faculty mentorship, and hands-on research. The flexible D-Plan (quarter system) lets students tailor their studies with off-campus programs, internships, and research. Dartmouth’s tight-knit community and scenic setting encourage both academic excellence and outdoor exploration. Notable alumni include Theodore Geisel (Dr. Seuss), whose creativity embodies Dartmouth’s spirit of innovation.
Dartmouth looks for students who think independently and pursue ideas with energy and purpose. Whether through research, leadership, or personal projects, strong applicants demonstrate a clear sense of intellectual curiosity and a drive to explore topics that matter to them.
Ideal candidates thrive in a small, collaborative environment where connection matters. Dartmouth values students who engage fully with their peers and professors, bringing authenticity and a spirit of contribution to both the classroom and campus life.
From the D-Plan’s off-cycle opportunities to its strong outdoor culture, Dartmouth attracts students who are adaptable and eager to make the most of its unique structure. A genuine appreciation for exploration, both academic and geographic, goes a long way in standing out.
3.9-4.0
1500-1570
33-35
Dartmouth requires standardized testing as part of the undergraduate application. However, scores are just one contextualized factor in the holistic admissions process.
For Students in the U.S.:
For Students Outside the U.S.:
Applicants can meet the testing requirement in one of five ways:
Dartmouth places high value on letters that bring your academic and personal qualities to life. Admissions officers want to see not only how well you perform in class, but how you think, lead, and engage with others. Strong letters come from teachers who can speak in detail about your intellectual curiosity, initiative, and character—especially in discussion-based or writing-intensive courses, which mirror Dartmouth’s classroom environment.
Choose recommenders who know you well and can highlight how you contribute to a tight-knit academic community. Depth matters more than prestige.
should reflect more than just achievement. Highlight experiences where you’ve built something, contributed to a team, or pursued a passion with depth. Whether it’s leading a service project, conducting research, or organizing outdoor trips, your list should show how you engage with others and take initiative in ways that align with Dartmouth’s values. Here’s what a weak vs. strong profile looks like:
| Less Competitive Applicant | Competitive Applicant | |
|---|---|---|
| Student Government | Member, no leadership | VP, launched a sustainability project |
| Debate Club | Local competitions, no major achievements | State finalist, mentored younger members |
| Community Service | Occasional volunteering, no sustained impact | Founded a STEM tutoring program |
| Soccer Team | JV player, no leadership | Varsity captain, organized a fundraiser |
| Part-Time Job | Worked weekends, no advancement | Shift leader, managed employee schedules |
| Why It Falls ShortLacks leadership, initiative, and long-term commitment. | Why It Stands OutDemonstrates leadership, initiative, and tangible impact. |
Dartmouth’s prompts are designed to reveal how you think, what you value, and why you’d thrive in their close-knit community. Be specific and mention programs or traditions unique to Dartmouth. Be personal and choose prompts that let you share meaningful experiences or insights. If you’re unsure which to pick, draft a few and go with the one that feels the most natural and revealing.
Essay Sections:
Why Dartmouth? (100 words)
Explain what draws you to Dartmouth’s academic programs, community, and campus environment.
Personal Reflection (Choose 1 of 2 prompts)
Topics include your upbringing or introducing your true self.
Deeper Exploration (Choose 1 of 6 prompts)
Options range from intellectual curiosity and impact to embracing difference and navigating tough conversations. Choose what feels most you.
Dartmouth requires two teacher recommendations, so choose teachers who can speak to your character and academic growth. The best letters come from those who know you both in and out of the classroom—ask early to ensure a thoughtful, detailed recommendation.
Dartmouth uses a holistic admissions process, meaning every part of your application counts. If standardized tests aren’t your strong suit, focus on compelling essays and impactful extracurriculars to showcase your strengths in other areas.
Instead of just asking “How do I get in?” ask why Dartmouth is the right fit for you. Explore its D-Plan, research opportunities, and campus culture so you can write specific, thoughtful essays that show your enthusiasm for the school.
Before applying, consider whether Dartmouth aligns with your academic and personal goals:
If these aspects resonate with you, Dartmouth may be the perfect place to grow academically and personally!
College Admissions Counseling Results: Dartmouth
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Having played a key role in the Dartmouth admissions process, our Former Admissions Officers and Graduate Coaches have helped thousands of students gain acceptance. Whether you’re just starting your college search or finalizing your application, we provide expert guidance on everything from college essays and personal statements to extracurriculars and beyond.
Former Assistant Director of Tuck School of Business Admissions, Dartmouth | Former Admissions Counselor, University of Maryland University College | Former Assistant Director of Admissions, Choate Rosemary Hall | Former Admissions Officer, The Putney School
Find educational content to learn about elite college admissions in the United States
Dartmouth offers Early Decision (ED), which is binding—meaning that if admitted, applicants must enroll.
Very important. Dartmouth places significant emphasis on essays to assess fit, intellectual curiosity, and personal character.
Popular and competitive majors include Economics, Government, Biology, Engineering, and Computer Science.
No, Dartmouth is test-optional, but high scores can still enhance an application.
The D-Plan is Dartmouth’s unique quarter system, allowing students to customize their academic schedule, including internships and study abroad.
Students who are academically ambitious, community-oriented, adventurous, and passionate about learning excel at Dartmouth.
Dartmouth has over 350 student organizations, including outdoor adventure clubs, political groups, performing arts, and entrepreneurship programs.
